History of St. Joseph’s

History of St. Joseph’s N.S.

St Joseph’s National School opened in 1979 .Gerry Murphy was appointed principal. By 1980 work had begun on the new school buildings and the Marist Fathers were invited to take over administration of the newly formed parish of the Holy Family. Father Des Hunt became the first Chairman of St. Joseph’s School Board of Management. The current Chairperson of the Board is Sr. Joan Watters, a member of the Mercy Sisters, who is resident in the parish.

The Old School

Many community-based agencies, such as Springboard (family support), Lios na nOg (both pre-schools), School Completion ,a Speech and Language Therapy Unit and the Special Needs Assistant Scheme were set up on the school campus. These services have greatly enhanced the ability of the school to offer a high quality educational experience to its pupils.

The New School

In 2005 when the Department of Education announced a new support service for schools in economically disadvantaged areas called DEIS. The service provided additional funding and personnel. The school gained a full-time Home School Community Liaison co-ordinator, further strengthening and extending the partnership bonds between school and community. The very proactive Parent Association of St. Joseph’s has been a constant support to the staff and students.

The school now has a vibrant international population who are enjoying the addition of a stunning new extension which includes a state-of- the art sport’s hall and library. Marcella o Conluain, who succeeded Gerry Murphy as principal in 2012, oversaw the refurbishment and building of the two-storey extension. Dr. Rosalyn Morris, the current principal, is set with the task of ensuring that St. Joseph’s continues to grow as a bright, welcoming, progressive, Catholic school that celebrates difference and cherishes all.

The school now has a vibrant international population who are enjoying the addition of a stunning new extension which includes a state-of- the art sport’s hall and library. Marcella o Conluain, who succeeded Gerry Murphy as principal in 2012, oversaw the refurbishment and building of the two-storey extension. Dr. Rosalyn Morris, the current principal, is set with the task of ensuring that St. Joseph’s continues to grow as a bright, welcoming, progressive, Catholic school that celebrates difference and cherishes all.